Janey was the kitchen manager at Black Hawk East College from 1992 to 2007.

“I do want to say that my new job has changed my faith in humanity. We have a wonderful group of good volunteers here in Kewanee,” she said.

Janey said the food pantry relies on volunteer workers.

Lisa and her husband Gary have lived in the Kewanee area since the 1970s. She grew up in Brooklyn, New York.

The couple relocated to the Kewanee area to raise their five children, who are now grown, in a smaller community.

In the mid-1980s Gary Janey was laid off from his job for more than a year. It was around Christmas time when the family had a surprise gift food basket delivered to their home anonymously.

“We were so surprised and so appreciative of that gift. I had not signed up or requested the food but someone else apparently had given the donors our name. I remember how appreciative we were for that,” said Janey. “I look at my new job as an opportunity to give something back and help those who are currently living in similar situations as we were back then.”

The Kewanee Food Panty serves 5,954 individuals, or about 46 percent of the population of Kewanee. Last month 3,650 people were served.

Janey said the food pantry at 924 Rose St. needs to be remodeled. Flooring under the coolers has started to deteriorate to the point that the doors can’t be opened. The food pantry board of directors is exploring remodeling or expansion options.

“We are in the early exploration stages at this point but was are going to start trying to raise donations to help with deferring the cost,” said Janey.

The Kewanee Food Pantry is open Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Thursdays from 3 to 6 p.m. For more information or to volunteer at the site call 852-3577 or contact Janey by cell phone at 525-4700.